Beer Garden Seeking Expansion Challenged By Neighbors

DERBY, Conn. (AP) — Residents of a Connecticut neighborhood say they oppose a proposed regulation that would allow a popular beer garden to expand.

Derby resident Neil Dorso says The Hops Company beer garden has increased illegal parking and speeding throughout his neighborhood. The Connecticut Post reports The Hops Co. is now seeking to expand through local board approval of a company-written proposed zoning regulation.

Lawyer Dominick Thomas says the regulation would allow it to add new parking places and a new building for receptions. He says the proposal would promote development and increase the local tax base.

Residents oppose the plan, and Board of Aldermen President Charles Sampson agrees — saying he doesn't believe the beer garden's current location is the right place to expand.